WHEELING, WV – The Wheeling-Ohio County Health Department received 200 Evzio naloxone injectors, designed with step-by-step directions for the average person to administer in an emergency, through a donation by Kaleo Inc., the drug’s manufacturer.
This donation along with the department’s needle exchange program, vaccination and disease testing are part of the department’s Harm Reduction Program. Administered as an injection through the patient’s thigh, Evzio is FDA-approved to treat an opioid overdose.
The health department holds Naloxone (Narcan) community opiod overdose trainings for individuals, groups and businesses.
When administered correctly, Narcan restores breathing that has been dangerously slowed by an overdose of heroin or prescription painkillers. Narcan works within a minute or two and gives emergency responders time to get the person to a hospital. Residents who participate in the trainings will:
- recognize the signs and symptoms of an opioid overdose
- properly administer naloxone (Narcan) both Nasal and injector style devices
- know the necessary follow-up steps
- Receive a training certificate and Narcan prescription
- Receive a health department issued EVZIO Naloxone Injector.
Trainings are held at the City/County Building, 1st floor. Off-site trainings can be arranged. Pre-registration is required for the training.
Naloxone education and certification is highly recommended for anyone involved in drug use to include but not limited to; drug users, family members and caregivers of drug users, first responders, etc. Naloxone will be distributed at these sessions. Education will be provided on the administration of the medication, side effects, society and culture.
For more information or to register for the next Narcan training call the Wheeling-Ohio County Health Department at (304) 234-3682.